Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

Guy Ritchie

Plot Summary

Robert Downey Jr. reprises his role as the world's most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, and Jude Law returns as his friend and colleague, Dr. John Watson, in "Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows." There is a new criminal mastermind at large-Professor James Moriarty (Jared Harris)-and not only is he Holmes' intellectual equal, but his capacity for evil, coupled with a complete lack of conscience, may give him an advantage over the renowned detective. Holmes' investigation into Moriarty's plot becomes more dangerous as it leads him and Watson out of London to France, Germany and finally Switzerland. But the cunning Moriarty is always one step ahead, and moving perilously close to completing his ominous plan. If he succeeds, it will not only bring him immense wealth and power but alter the course of history.

Customer Reviews

AN EXCITING, ACTION-PACKED SEQUEL!

by
Broken Headphones

When it was released in 2009, the Guy Ritchie-directed adaptation of "Sherlock Holmes" certainly gave the legendary sleuth the modern update he deserved. Filled with stylish action set pieces, strong performances from a talented ensemble cast and backed up by a brilliant score, the film easily became one of my personal favorite mystery-adventure movies ever. So when "A Game of Shadows", the much-anticipated sequel, finally came to theaters, my friends and I were more than reluctant to see it on opening day. And for the most part, it didn't disappoint. But that's not to say it didn't have its share of flaws.

The film follows Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey, Jr.) once again as he and his friend and colleague Dr. John Watson (Jude Law) set out to defeat their greatest nemesis yet, a new criminal mastermind at large named Dr. Moriarty (Jared Harris). Not only is he Holmes' intellectual equal, but his capacity for evil, along with a complete lack of conscience, may actually give him an advantage over the renowned detective. Holmes' investigation into Moriarty's nefarious plot becomes more dangerous as it leads him and Watson out of London and all across Europe. But the villainous professor is always one step ahead of the duo as he spins a web of death and destruction-all part of a greater plan that, if he succeeds, will change the very course of history.

I have to say, this movie really surprised me in ways I never thought it would. Not only did it greatly expand on the personality and philosophy of Holmes' mysterious persona, but the story consistently kept me on my feet with the its unpredictable twists and turns. Of course, like in the first film, Robert Downey, Jr. effortlessly steals the spotlight as the titular character, owning the screen with his humorous dialogue, over-the-top behavior and impressive fighting skills. Coupled with Jude Law's brilliantly unconventional representation of Watson, the two leading men deliver some of the best on-screen chemistry ever portrayed in any franchise. In addition to the flick's commendable performances, Hans Zimmer's epic score carries every scene with tension and excitement, the story's pacing is fluidly fast-paced and the larger-than-life cinematography is simply breathtaking.

Although there are so many great things to say about "Sherlock Holmes 2", it does tend to falter at times. Because the script is more concerned with delivering constant action than telling a solid, cohesive story, it often makes the movie feel too chaotic and convoluted than it should be. Also, the banter between Holmes and Moriarty can get somewhat tired and formulaic after a while. But for what it had to offer, I enjoyed this sequel as a whole. The characters are fun and engaging and the spontaneous fighting sequences are extremely well-choreographed. Even more impressive is the fact that the grand scale of it all is just so staggering in quality and size. In the end, I'd definitely recommend renting or buying "A Game of Shadows", especially if you're a full-on action-suspense junkie like me. It may not reach the same heights as its predecessor, but it still makes for an exceptionally entertaining, adrenaline-fueled treat!

Freaking Amazing!

by
Alkies

Went to the theatre to see this, Twice! Outstanding action+Outstanding acting+Outstanding Plot = OUTSTANDING MOVIE! My wife and I were on the edge of our seats. The musical score, done of course by the one and only Hans Zimmer made the movie even more compeling. Definately worth a rent, but I'll definately be purchasing this as soon as it hits HD

As good as the first!

by
Nappiehair

Don't listen to critics! if u loved the first film, then get ready for an even better story this time around!